Jaclyn Sienna India established her boutique travel concierge, Sienna Charles, in 2008 with the belief that she could succeed despite having no initial clients. She recalls how her husband doubted her ambition when they received inquiries from potential clients, to which she would respond that they were fully booked. Fast forward sixteen years, and her venture has flourished, serving high-profile clients, including former President George W. Bush and celebrities like Mariah Carey, all of whom earn over $100 million annually.
India emphasizes that her clients, despite their power and connections, often lack the time, access, and creativity to turn their visions into reality. Her approach is rooted in genuine care and understanding, drawing from her background as a server for five years prior to establishing her business. She possesses a robust network in the hospitality sector, maintaining over 2,000 contacts in exclusive hotels, restaurants, and yacht services, which allows her to curate unique travel and dining experiences.
She focuses on the quality and authenticity of experiences, sometimes turning down glamorous venues like the Michelin-starred French Laundry in favor of more unique options. For instance, she has orchestrated extraordinary events such as a candlelight dinner in Versailles or brunch on the Arc de Triomphe. Additionally, she often arranges for her clients to meet influential personalities, having set up interactions with families from renowned brands like Hermes and Fendi.
India also recognizes that some requests are more straightforward, exemplified by her arrangement for Bush to have familiar comforts while traveling in Ethiopia. She underscores her dedication to providing authentic experiences, stating, “The world is not just luxury. The world is not just fancy experiences. It’s everything, and [my clients] want authentic experiences.”